2008 Acura RDX - Interior

The RDX interior artfully integrates the themes of sporting capability and urban intelligence that drove the development of the entire vehicle. The result is an interior that would look fully at home in a high performance luxury sport sedan, coupled with fully integrated electronic technologies and a new level of practical utility.

Fine interior materials and careful attention to detail and finish highlight the RDX interior. Stylish and highly supportive perforated leather-trimmed, heated front seats are designed to provide a sporty yet refined driving experience. The power driver's seat adjusts 10 ways for optimum comfort, and the front passenger seat is 4-way manually adjustable. Supporting the RDX's versatility is a dual-mode cargo lid, which can be flipped over and placed on the cargo floor when carrying dirty objects.

The RDX brings a formidable list of standard equipment to its developing new market segment. The leather-wrapped 3-spoke steering wheel has fingertip controls and F1®-style paddle shifters, and frames striking LED backlit gauges. The standard 360-watt 7-speaker Acura Premium Sound System with 6-disc CD changer can play just about every type of current audio format, and includes standard XM® Satellite Radio and an auxiliary jack for the easy connection of an iPod® or MP3 player. Acura MusicLink™ is available as an accessory. Staying connected is not a problem as the RDX comes standard with Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink™ wireless telephone interface that is compatible with many Bluetooth® mobile phones.

Dual-zone automatic climate control keeps occupants comfortable and interior storage abounds. There is a locking center console with room inside for a briefcase, and the large rear cargo area is both private and highly versatile.

The available Technology Package adds even more capability, and integrates seamlessly into the RDX's performance-oriented driving environment. The Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ and rearview camera has a large 8-inch screen. With the AcuraLink™ Satellite Communication System with real-time traffic, the RDX driver can navigate around congested freeways, while enjoying the spectacular 410-watt 10-speaker Acura/ELS Surround® Premium Sound System with multi-format 6-disc DVD-Audio changer, AM/FM tuner, XM® Satellite Radio, and Dolby Pro Logic II.

The concept of a downtown loft, with its feeling of generous space, modern elements and emotional presence, was the inspiration for the RDX interior. To that end, the RDX interior blends a dynamic and substantial look with advanced features. At the same time, the RDX provides a new level of secure and useful utility. Quality of materials along with fit and finish has received close attention in the RDX interior. Rich surface finishes and clean technical accents reflect the RDX's integration of welcoming comfort and high technology. Two interior color themes are available: Ebony and Taupe.

DRIVER-ORIENTED COCKPIT AND INSTRUMENTATION

With the commanding outward view of an SUV and a sedan-like seating position, the RDX interior creates a uniquely sporting environment. Acura interior design has always made intuitive functionality a priority, and in the RDX, all important systems and controls are within easy reach of the driver with large-format controls and precise tactile feel. The systems used most frequently - audio and cruise control - have switches positioned on the steering wheel. Technology Package items like Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink™, Satellite-Linked Navigation System and Multi-Information Display (MID) also can be controlled via switches on the steering wheel.

The main instrumentation is easy-to-read analog, supplemented with digital and graphic displays. Even though the RDX gives its driver access to many electronic features and conveniences, the interface with each system is simple and intuitive. Sight lines are clear with important items placed within easy view.

MULTI-INFORMATION DISPLAY

The RDX provides important vehicle information via the LCD Multi-Information Display (MID) positioned in the lower portion of the speedometer face. The MID shows outside temperature, vehicle mileage and trip mileage, average fuel economy, TPMS status and is operated via an illuminated control on the instrument panel. The RDX with Technology Package has controls positioned near the steering wheel hub that allow the driver to cycle the display through additional screens of information while keeping both hands on the wheel. It also provides programmable feature customization on the RDX with the technology package.

Trip computer functions include average and instantaneous fuel economy. In addition, the Technology Package MID can display:

Fuel range

Average vehicle speed

Elapsed time

SH-AWD™ torque distribution

TPMS pressure readouts from each wheel

Feature customization options

Maintenance Minder™ also alerts the driver of upcoming maintenance needs via the MID.

CENTER INSTRUMENT PANEL DISPLAY

To make the climate control and audio systems easy to operate, the RDX (without Technology Package) has a 6.5-inch display centrally positioned in the instrument panel. In addition to a digital clock, the upper portion of the screen is devoted to the audio system, and features a multi-line display that can show CD title, as well as RDS radio station information when available. The lower half of the display is devoted to the automatic climate control system, and shows the operating mode and selected temperature settings.

When equipped with the Technology Package, the center dash display is replaced with an 8-inch navigation system screen, and an additional display is positioned just above. This display shows the most frequently used audio system and climate control settings, which are accessed via the easy-to-use interface dial.

LEATHER-WRAPPED STEERING WHEEL

The leather wrapped 3-spoke steering wheel is designed to put the most commonly used controls within fingertip reach. Audio system controls are positioned on the left spoke, and cruise control switches are on the right spoke. A pair of F1®-style paddles are tucked almost out of view but within fingertip reach to manually upshift and downshift the Sequential SportShift automatic transmission.

When equipped with the Technology Package, the four o'clock position on the steering wheel has switches that operate the MID. The eight o'clock position is reserved for navigation system controls, including a push-to-talk button to activate the voice recognition system, which provides voice control over the navigation system. Controls for Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® are located on the lower left corner of the steering wheel.

SEATING

The sporting performance of the RDX and the sharp handling afforded by SH-AWD™ demanded seating of sport sedan caliber. All seating surfaces are wrapped in soft perforated leather for cool comfort. The front bucket seats are designed to provide solid support for high energy cornering, along with abundant comfort for long drives. The contoured shape features substantial side bolsters to help keep passengers comfortably in position as cornering g forces build.

The highly adaptable driver seat is 10-way power adjustable and includes a power-adjustable lumbar support mechanism. The smooth shape of the articulated lumbar mechanism matches the occupant's spinal curvature to provide solid support for the torso. The front passenger seat is 4-way manually adjustable. In the rear seat area, the outer seating positions are carefully engineered - complete with side bolsters - to combine luxurious comfort with good lateral support.

INTERIOR ROOMINESS AND CONVENIENCE

The RDX interior accommodates five passengers, with generous headroom and legroom. Rear outboard passengers will also find ample foot room under the front seats.

Convenient storage areas are easily accessible throughout the interior. Each front door has a utility box compartment built into the padded armrest. The lockable 6.3-liter glove box is illuminated. Up front, there are two cupholders in the center console. In the rear seat area, the center armrest folds down to reveal dual cupholders. The front center console is engineered with the urban driver in mind. Beneath the padded, lockable lid, there's a total of 18 liters of illuminated storage space - enough for a briefcase.

A fold-up interior divider and internal 12-volt power outlet make the console easily adaptable for a variety of needs, including secure, out-of-view storage of valuables like cameras, personal music players or other items. In addition, integrated to the underside of the lid is a coin holder and place for holding cards.

CARGO CARRYING VERSATILITY

Versatile cargo utility is an important RDX attribute. Behind the rear seats, there's 27.8 cubic feet of storage, easily accessible though the flip-up rear hatch. A hard lid provides privacy for items in the cargo area - perfect for urban environments where security is a priority. When not needed, the hard lid can be stored on the cargo floor, or flipped over to carry dirty objects on an easy-to-clean "wipeable" surface.

To carry larger items, the 60/40 split-folding rear seats can be easily stowed to create a flat load floor. First, the seat base cushions are lifted and tumbled forward; then the rear seat backs are folded flat. In this configuration, the RDX offers a total of 60.6 cubic feet of storage behind the front seats, more than enough for two 19-inch mountain bikes (with front wheels removed). When the rear seats are returned to their upright position, indicators built into the seatback release handles clearly inform when the seatbacks are fully latched in place.

INTERIOR LIGHTING

The RDX's driver-oriented interior takes on a clear technical edge after dark. The analog instruments are LED backlit, with high-contrast markings and a subdued blue accent hue. The progressive self-illuminating gauge package gives the RDX a "welcoming" feel. When the door is first opened, the instrument lighting comes to life, and then brightens progressively to 100-percent when the ignition is switched on. The illuminated instrument needles and enunciator lights then come alive, indicating that the RDX is ready to go. At the end of the drive, the instrument lighting dims progressively.

Interior switches are illuminated to make them easy to locate at night, including those switches on all four doors and the steering wheel. The RDX has blue low-level ambient lighting in the ceiling that illuminates the front center console area. All four doors have courtesy lights that are illuminated when the doors are open. The RDX with Technology Package has interior lights featuring "theater dimming," which can be customized by the driver via the Multi-Information Display (MID) to any of three dimming times.

DUAL-ZONE AUTOMATIC CLIMATE CONTROL SYSTEM

RDX has a dual-zone, automatic climate control system that lets the driver and front passenger set the temperature to their individual liking. Large, simple-to-use system controls are positioned within easy reach, just below the center instrument panel vents. In addition, the RDX with Technology Package offers a GPS-linked, solar-sensing, dual-zone, automatic climate control system. Based on continuously updated vehicle position and direction of travel, the navigation system determines the position of the sun relative to the driver and passenger. Combining this information with input from the solar sensor located on top of the instrument panel, the climate control system automatically adjusts the temperature, fan speed, and vent position from side to side as needed to compensate for asymmetrical solar heating.

OVERHEAD CONSOLE

The overhead console incorporates a variety of useful features. Controls for the standard HomeLink® system are positioned here within easy reach. Other overhead console features include controls for interior lighting and the power tilt/slide moonroof.

7-SPEAKER ACURA PREMIUM SOUND WITH 6-CD CHANGER

Acura RDX comes standard with a 7-speaker Acura Premium Sound audio system with a multi-format 6-disc changer. This 360-watt system is designed to give RDX owners exceptional sound quality, where the changer uses a 24-bit D/A converter along with the ability to enjoy a wide range of audio formats. In addition to AM and FM radio bands, the system's changer can play CD, CD-R/RW, CD-Text, and MP3/WMA discs. CDs with embedded text information can also be displayed. Speed-dependent volume control increases the audio gain automatically as road speed increases.

The system also includes XM® Satellite Radio, which provides more than 170 channels of digital program material with near-CD quality sound. A text display provides informational text on the program material. XM® Satellite Radio provides virtually uninterrupted coverage of the 48 contiguous states and select Canadian cities, and requires a monthly subscription. XM® Satellite Radio service for Alaska and Hawaii does not exist at this time. Three months of complimentary XM® Satellite Radio service is provided with RDX models.

For RDX owners who have personal music players, an easily accessible auxiliary input jack with nearby 12-volt power outlet makes a high quality audio connection simple.

Large-format controls make the audio system easy to operate, and the center dash display clearly shows system operating settings. The sound system sends a total of 360-watts of power through seven channels. A 6.7-inch Kevlar-cone Neodymium-magnet speaker is positioned in each door and a pair of 1-inch aluminum-dome Neodymium-magnet tweeters are located near the A-pillars to provide clear and detailed sound imaging. An 8-inch Ferrite-magnet subwoofer is positioned in a tuned enclosure in the right sidewall of the cargo area, to improve low frequency sound linearity.

Speed-sensitive Volume Compensation

For optimum sound regardless of vehicle speed, the system includes automatic Speed-sensitive Volume Compensation (SVC). SVC adjusts audio volume based on vehicle speed to compensate for increasing or decreasing external background sounds in the RDX. The result is transparent operation and a more consistent perceived sound level regardless of vehicle speed. SVC is available on the RDX Premium audio system and RDX with Technology Package.

A key part of the RDX's available Technology Package is a 10-speaker Acura/ELS Surround® Premium Sound System with multi-format 6-disc DVD-Audio changer. The Acura/ELS Surround® Premium Sound System adds a new and dramatic dimension to the automotive audio experience. Engineered by Grammy® award-winning recording engineer and producer Elliot Scheiner, Panasonic and Acura, the 410-watt surround system reaches new levels of clarity and definition to provide a highly accurate listening experience. When playing DVD-Audio discs, the system provides a total of six discrete audio channels.

Head unit

Like the standard Acura Premium Sound System, the Acura/ELS Surround® Premium Sound System is remarkably versatile. The 6-disc in-dash changer can play CD, CD-R/RW, CD-Text, and MP3/WMA discs. In addition, it can also play DVD-Audio discs (the system will not play DVD movies, DVD-Video or DVD-R/RW). The system also includes AM, FM and XM® Satellite Radio. An easily accessible AUX input jack with nearby 12-volt power makes it simple to connect a personal music player to the system. A display above the navigation screen shows the most frequently used audio system settings at all times, independent of the Navigation system, which is included in the Technology Package. Screens within the navigation system menu allow more detailed fine-tuning of the audio system.

Acura/ELS® Surround Sound

Acura/ELS Surround® Sound is included in the RDX with Technology Package. The system gets its name from Elliot Scheiner's recording industry-recognized moniker "ELS." Scheiner's goal was to tune, capture and reproduce music the way it is heard in the recording studio. Vehicle noise aside, the defined space of an automotive interior is an excellent setting to achieve studio sound, since the positions of the passengers and speakers and the acoustics of the interior surfaces are known.

In addition to the accurate reproduction of music from two-channel sources, the Acura/ELS Surround system features DVD-Audio playback and a discrete multi-channel surround sound experience. By featuring discrete multi-channel, the system can reproduce six independent channels of audio source material, creating sound that truly surrounds the listener- a dramatic change from standard automotive audio systems where only two channels (left and right) are available. The key to a discrete surround experience is the extra data on the DVD-Audio disc.

Even when not playing DVD-Audio discs in Acura/ELS Surround® Sound, the system delivers a remarkable listening experience. Uniquely engineered equalization for each media type allows the sound quality to be optimized regardless of whether the system plays conventional CDs, XM® Satellite Radio or any other format. In the first application for an Acura, the system also features selectable Dolby Pro Logic II signal processing that creates simulated 5.1-channel surround sound from CD, MP3/WMA, XM, or AUX.

Amplification/Speaker System

The Acura/ELS Premium Sound® System uses a 24-bit D/A converter, and it is the first production sound system to use a digital 96 kHz sample rate for smoother sound. Advanced electronics in the system gave Scheiner the ability to precisely tune the acoustics of each speaker, and the timing of each of six audio channels to achieve the truest possible reproduction.

Nine of the 10 speakers in the RDX with Technology Package uses a high-energy Neodymium magnet (subwoofer uses a Ferrite magnet) for unparalleled sound quality and drastically reduced weight. There's a 6.7-inch mid/low-range dual thickness polypropylene-cone speaker in each door and a 1-inch soft-dome tweeter near each A-pillar. A center channel 2.75-inch mid-range polypropylene-cone speaker is centered on top of the instrument panel, and the left and right two satellite channel speakers (same as center speaker) are positioned just behind the second-row seats, positioned high and angled into the interior. A special Super Low Distortion 8-inch subwoofer powered by a separate 100-watt amplifier is positioned in a tuned enclosure on the right sidewall of the cargo area, to provide rich, deep bass, without intruding on passenger room or useful storage space.

All RDX models feature standard Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® hands free phone interface that is designed to work with many Bluetooth®-enabled mobile phones (sold separately). Bluetooth® is a radio frequency-based cable replacement technology that lets portable devices like mobile phones, PDAs, laptops and other devices communicate wirelessly. The RDX system is compatible with Bluetooth® enabled cell phones that have the Hands Free Profile (HFP). Some early Bluetooth®-enabled phones do not have this communications protocol. After the driver completes a 1-time "pairing" process, the RDX can communicate wirelessly and securely with the driver's cell phone. The phone needs to be on, but it can be stowed in a pocket, briefcase, purse, or anywhere inside the RDX cabin.

Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® allows the driver to send or answer telephone calls without removing hands from the steering wheel. When a call comes in, the number of the incoming caller is displayed on the Multi-Information Display (MID) located in the speedometer face. The phone ring tone is also played over the audio system. If the driver chooses to answer the call, a press of the steering wheel-mounted "Pick up" button (located at the eight o'clock position) mutes the audio system and the incoming caller is heard over the audio system speakers. An overhead microphone picks up the driver's voice. Algorithms built into the Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® system cancel "echo effect" and reduce background noise to improve the transmission quality of the driver's speech.

To send a call hands-free, the driver can dial the number by voice, again using fingertip controls mounted at the eight o'clock position on the steering wheel to activate the system. The driver also can store frequently called numbers with voice tags in the system's address book. Up to six different compatible mobile phones can be paired with the Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink™ system at one time. Additional information can be found at www.acura.com/handsfreelink or www.handsfreelink.com.

ACURALINK™ SATELLITE COMMUNICATION SYSTEM WITH REAL TIME TRAFFIC (TECHNOLOGY PACKAGE)

The RDX with Technology Package comes with the latest generation of the AcuraLink™ Satellite Communication System with real-time traffic. AcuraLink™ allows for 2-way communication between Acura and the vehicle, providing customers with the latest information specific to their vehicle. In cases where communication to and from the Acura Telematics server is needed, the owner's Bluetooth®-compatible cell phone is used (once the owner has paired it with the vehicle, enabled its data-transmission function and agreed to the data charges from their cellular phone service provided).

AcuraLink™ messages consist of limited text displayed on the navigation screen plus full details via Text-To-Speech that can be heard over the RDX audio system. Each message is prioritized by importance. High priority messages are displayed immediately upon receipt. Other messages trigger an icon on the navigation screen. Some low priority messages show up only on vehicle start-up to avoid distractions. In all cases, the RDX owner can choose to read the message immediately, or archive it to be read later.

A variety of messages can be sent to the RDX, including Maintenance Minder ™ (detailed information regarding the next required maintenance), Quick Tips (information to help maximize the benefit and enjoyment of RDX features), Feature Guide (supplements to the Owner's Manual), Diagnostic Info (detailed information and instruction should an onboard system issue arise), information regarding a service or repair required, and Service Appointment Reminders. The RDX owner has complete control over the types of messages received. All AcuraLink™ preferences can be set via the Owner Link web site.

Since the system allows 2-way data communication between the RDX and the Acura Telematics Server, AcuraLink™ can provide the owner with vital information that previously has been unavailable. For example, if an ABS/BRAKE warning light should appear on the RDX instrument panel, AcuraLink™ will automatically send a trouble code to the Acura Telematics Server (if a linked-phone is in range and the user has authorized data transmission), which interprets the code, then sends a message back to the RDX, such as "ABS and EBD shut down! Drive slowly. Avoid sudden hard braking." This way, the owner knows if a particular fault is serious enough to cancel a trip, if it can be dealt with later or if it requires special driving techniques. The data connection is enabled even if the monthly XM® Satellite Radio service package is not in effect.

Real-Time Traffic Information

The navigation screen can display up-to-the-minute traffic information including flow (traffic speed where available), accidents, incident, construction and weather on freeways in 76 major metropolitan areas-an increase of 32 metro areas for 2008. The information is aggregated by NAVTEQ™ from multiple sources including police and highway patrol accident reports and transportation departments and then transmitted by XM® Satellite Radio satellites to the RDX where it is graphically displayed on the navigation system.

RDX drivers can select an icon on the map to see incident details. Traffic information is continuously updated, allowing drivers to avoid congestion en route and choose the best path to their destination. The system gives RDX owners a useful time saving tool on freeways. Unlike radio or television traffic reports, real-time traffic provides a constant flow of relevant information reflecting conditions along a driver's chosen route. Real-time traffic data services are offered on a subscription basis for a nominal fee following the 3-month free trial period. In addition to the on-screen traffic information, RDX owners who maintain their XM® Satellite Radio service also receive more general audio traffic information that runs on a 2-3 minute loop in selected metropolitan areas.

Make calls to on-screen points of interest with Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®

User selectable Day/Night screen or display off modes

Trip routing can include up to five user-chosen way points

Trip routing can avoid user-selected areas

Exit list shows which businesses are available at a given highway exit

On-screen graphic of highway interchanges indicates which lane to use to stay on route

System Operation

Based on positioning data from up to 12 orbiting Global Positioning Satellites (GPS), the Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ locates the vehicle's position. If the GPS antenna is blocked by a tunnel, tall building or parking garage, an internal gyroscopic system and a speed sensor track the location of the vehicle to help keep the mapping information current and reliable until satellite reception is restored. A DVD database is located in the system's ECU. Updated DVD data discs are available on an annual basis at www.acura.com or by calling a toll-free number.

The system can be controlled by voice, or by the interface dial. For voice operation, the driver simply presses the "Talk" button on the steering wheel and says any of a number of preset command phrases. The system responds to 683 command phrases, as well as to spoken city and street names (1.7 million available names). By speaking the city and street names aloud, this advanced voice recognition system simply allows the RDX owner to completely route to their destination by only using voice commands.

When the "Talk" button is pressed, the audio system is automatically muted, and an overhead microphone receives the command from the driver. Commands can be given in plain English, like "Display gas stations," "Find nearest hospital," or "Find nearest Chinese restaurant." You can choose to display points of interest on the map (like restaurants or ATMs), or have the system provide turn-by-turn navigation - all by voice command. The extensive point-of-interest database includes phone numbers, which can be dialed easily by using the Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink™ system and the driver's compatible Bluetooth cell phone.

The Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ and real-time traffic can also be controlled via the Interface Dial by choosing menu options or spelling out a word (e.g., an address, business name or place). The interface dial functions much like a computer pointing device, allowing characters and items to be selected from the on-screen display.

INTERIOR ACCESSORIES

A variety of high-quality genuine Acura accessories are available for the 2008 RDX. Designed specifically for the vehicle, they add to luxury and improve the vehicle's utility. The accessories include:

All-season floor mats

Leather wrapped shift knob

Wood patterned trim panels

Ashtray

Interior center console cooler bag

Auto dimming mirror with compass

Acura Music Link

Rear cargo net

Rear cargo liner

Rear cargo organizer

SAFETY OVERVIEW

Acura's mission for the RDX is to provide an extraordinarily high level of safety that meets or exceeds current regulations and standards. The goals embrace a core Acura brand concept called "Safety Through Innovation."

Specific Safety Information:

New FMVSS 208 frontal and FMVSS 301 rear collision standards implemented by the federal government for 2008 model year

All 2008 model year vehicles are required to meet the latest federal crash-performance regulations known as FMVSS 208 (frontal) and FMVSS 301 (rear).

Above and beyond these are key safety evaluation tests from National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), which are often referenced by customers but not required by law. For the RDX, the engineering target was 5 Stars for the NHTSA tests and Good ratings for all IIHS tests - the best results possible.

This includes the IIHS ratings test called Side Impact Crashworthiness Evaluation (SICE), which limits the intrusiveness if hit by an SUV in a side collision. Finally, the RDX adopts pedestrian head protection measures that are above and beyond NHTSA standards.

ADVANCED COMPATIBILITY ENGINEERING™

Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) is the cornerstone engineering feature that defines much of the RDX structure. ACE™ helps maintain the structural integrity of the passenger cabin in a frontal crash. It does so by markedly improving energy distribution away from the cabin during the crash, and allowing a more uniform absorption of energy. This helps reduce the chance of intrusion into the passenger cabin. Also, ACE™ provides benefits in vehicle compatibility in frontal crashes, which can improve passenger safety when vehicles of dissimilar size and height collide.